The Power of Together

“Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much” (Helen Keller).

Although I like to think of myself as very independent (admittedly to a fault actually), there’s so much truth to this statement made by Helen Keller.

This won’t sound very complimentary, and may even sound quite shocking to anyone who knows me, but I don’t necessarily like people. But what I’ve discovered about myself in the last year or so is that even though I don’t necessarily like people, I need people. And truthfully, I believe we all do.

When I went to Florida last month I was simply fascinated by these trees I’ve never seen before. They’re called Banyan trees. They were huge, intricate, intriguing, and bizarre all at the same time. These trees have aerial roots which apparently grow down from its branches and adhere to the existing trunk. It continuously does this spreading wider and wider as it grows taller and taller.

After a little research I discovered that the Banyan tree is the national tree of India. Its linked roots and branches are used to symbolize the country’s unity. (After seeing several of these intertwined trees, I can understand why.) It’s even rumored that Napoleon’s army of 7,000 men took shelter under one of these huge Banyan Trees. Personally, the skeptic in me doesn’t quite buy that one, but nevertheless, you get the idea that these things are huge.

As I said, I was totally intrigued by these trees. I took lots of pictures of them because of what I felt like it could symbolize. The roots of these trees cling together, grow together, and get stronger and bigger…together. It’s the power of together.

Check out what King Solomon wrote: “It’s better to have a partner than go it alone. Share the work, share the wealth. And if one falls down, the other helps, But if there’s no one to help, tough! By yourself you’re unprotected. With a friend you can face the worst. Can you round up a third? A three-stranded rope isn’t easily snapped” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 12, MSG).

The power of together. Not only is it powerful, but I believe together is a gift from God. Even clear back in the days when the first man walked the earth, God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him” (Genesis 2:18).

God’s design is the idea of together—doing life together, sharing with each other, building each other up, encouraging each other, working together, supporting each other, praying together, meeting together, etc.–just like the Banyan trees.

Contrary to popular belief (including this author), “Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much.” It’s called the power of together!

Comments

Beth – great blog this morning…these trees are amazing. There is a huge one in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii that holds art fairs, community events etc under…not big enough for 7000 but none the less, really big…I’ll dig around to see if I have a photo somewhere of it.

Your last paragraph reminded me and almost sounds paraphrased of the end of Acts 2, explaining the first church….and Jesus surrounded himself with the 12 disciples, Mary, Martha…

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I am a working mom of toddler twins, wife to a very patient husband, and I strive everyday to cultivate a happy life for my family. Whether it's organizing a fun play area for the kids, cooking a family meal, or planning a date night, I'm always looking for ways to make life simpler so we can enjoy what matters: each other! This is my wish for you all as well. Thank you for being here! Read More…